The Yucatan nightjar is a species of nightjar in the family Caprimulgidae. It is found in Belize, Guatemala, Mexico, and Honduras.
Region
Yucatán Peninsula and adjacent northern Central America
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits lowland dry to semi-evergreen woodland, thorn scrub, and coastal thickets across the Yucatán Peninsula, extending into northern Belize and northeastern Guatemala, and locally to northern Honduras. It favors edges, second-growth, and open woodland with ample leaf litter for daytime roosting. Often found near clearings, tracks, and sparsely wooded karst country. Avoids dense, continuously humid rainforest and high montane habitats.
Altitude Range
0–500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A nocturnal insect-hawker, the Yucatan nightjar often hunts along forest edges and sometimes forages near streetlights that attract moths. It relies heavily on leaf-litter camouflage by day, sitting motionless on the ground. Males show conspicuous white patches in the tail during display flights. Its repetitive, whistled song carries far on still tropical nights.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
buoyant, mothlike flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically roosts alone or in pairs on the ground or low horizontal branches, relying on camouflage when approached. Nests on bare ground without a constructed nest, usually laying one or two eggs. Likely monogamous during the breeding season; males sing from low perches at dusk and night to advertise territory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, whistled, repetitive phrase, often a rising-and-falling two- to three-note call delivered in steady series. Also gives soft chuck notes and contact calls during foraging. Song carries well on calm nights.
